Class Time Nov - Dec 2014 27 43rd National Day HAPPY 43RD NATIONAL DAY UAE!

Photo: Ramesh Shukla Source: National Archives, UAE

s expatriates living in the since the federation was formed on him”, and their brothers, rulers of the , many December 2, 1971. emirates of , Ras Al Khaimah, of us have come to love this Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain and Ajman, Acountry and enjoy its traditions We would like to extend out sincere Highnesses and the people of the and culture. We have vacationed in congratulations to HH Sheikh Khalifa United Arab Emirates on the celebration many, if not all of the seven emirates bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the of the UAE’s 43rd anniversary. and are proud to call many of the locals UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, “May God our friends. protect him”, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin To commemorate this milestone, Teach Rashid , Vice President and UAE Magazine has compiled a special The UAE is undoubtedly one of the Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler feature that includes short profiles on most fascinating countries in the world of Dubai, “May God protect him”, HH the leaders, snapshots of the emirates, today. The rapid rate at which the General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed perspectives from citizens and country is developing, coupled with Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi memorable quotes among other great the many successes in key industries, and Deputy Supreme Commander of offerings. has added to its undeniable progress the Armed Forces, “May God protect

Congratulations on your 43rd anniversary, UAE! تهانينا لكم بمناسبة الذكرى ال43 لليوم الوطني لدولة اإلمارات العربية المتحدة.

28 Nov - Dec 2014 Special Feature 43rd National Day HH SHEIKH ZAYED BIN SULTAN AL NAHYAN… A TRUE VISIONARY & AN ICONIC LEADER

is Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may Allah bestow mercy upon him, His the beloved ‘father’ of the United Arab Emirates. His courage and tenacity to forge ahead in creating the country of his dreams… all contribute to the adoration and high esteem in which other rulers, his countrymen and expatriates living in the UAE hold him.

Hailed as a visionary and a man of great integrity, Sheikh Zayed is credited with instilling in his people, a genuine love and patriotism for the UAE. This is evident in the numerous initiatives that place the interests of the people of the UAE first.

He was notably a firm believer in education and personally funded the first modern school. Today, there are numerous education institutions and respectful of the culture of the UAE and countries globally. awards that carry his name. the laws that govern the country. His Highness Sheikh Zayed left behind Sheikh Zayed was instrumental in He enjoyed and maintained positive a rich legacy of kindness and humility, creating an atmosphere of tolerance diplomatic ties with other nations, while which is evidenced in the actions of among expatriates and locals who holding firm to his country’s beliefs. today’s rulers, who are also humble live together in the UAE. Expatriates This has positioned the UAE as a and philanthropic. are encouraged to be mindful and powerful and respected ally of many

Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al “Since God, bestows His graces on “We should preserve our traditions and Nahyan Quotes us providing us with wealth, it is our national heritage. We should stick to role to use this wealth for the benefit our roots and our Arabic and Islamic “A country’s greatest investment and prosperity of our people as an traditions.” - Sheikh Zayed Grand lies in building generations of expression of gratitude to our Lord.” - Mosque educated and knowledgeable youth.” Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (Source: Distinguished Students “It is my duty as the leader of the young Scholarships) “The education of our people is a great people of this country to encourage wealth. We are proud of our educated them to work and to exert themselves “The UAE Federation was a realistic nation because through knowledge in order to raise their own standards personification of the hopes and and science we will open the horizons and to be of service to the country. aspirations of the Emirati people. The of a glorious future.” - Sheikh Zayed The individual who is healthy and of a federation was the dream of a nation Grand Mosque sound mind and body but who does not who struggled to build a free society work commits a crime against himself and a glorious future under the banners “The process of construction and and society.” – Gulf News of justice. The UAE Federation will play development requires the efforts not a pioneering role toward the unification only of the government but also of of all Arab peoples. It will serve as a all the citizens of the UAE.” - Sheikh nucleus for a comprehensive Arab Zayed Grand Mosque unity.” - Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Special Feature Nov - Dec 2014 29 43rd National Day HH SHEIKH KHALIFA BIN ZAYED BIN SULTAN AL NAHYAN – PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES & RULER OF ABU DHABI

HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Quotes:

“Educating the individual is the country’s most valuable investment. It represents the foundation for progress and development.”

“A true commitment to tapping all of the available work field, combined with a high enthusiasm for acquiring knowledge, broadening horizons and benefiting from modern science is necessary for the UAE to succeed in taking a forward step into the 21st century.”

“In an effort to successfully build our nation, a large portion of this country’s income is invested in compensating opportunities for progress that may have passed us by, and in moving along with the progress of developed countries in order to support our main aim of advancing the UAE and the UAE national.”

“Despite the educational achievements, the educational process is an ever- growing challenge in need of meticulous planning and rigorous efforts of programme development in order to keep up with modern technology and the fast paced technological advancement.” is Highness Sheikh Khalifa ‘Father of the Nation’ He became bin Zayed Al Nahyan is the president of the UAE, after HH Sheikh President of the United Arab Zayed died in November 2004. Like Source: Distinguished Students Scholarships HEmirates and the ruler of Abu his father, Sheikh Khalifa is known for Dhabi, which is the largest emirate in putting the interest of his country and the UAE. He is also the Commander people first. He is beloved and highly of The Union Defence Force and is respected by his people. reknowned for his philanthropy. The Burj Dubai, the tallest building HH Sheikh Khalifa is the eldest son in the world, was renamed the Burj of HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Khalifa in his honour in 2010. Nahyan, visionary, former ruler and

30 Nov - Dec 2014 Special Feature 43rd National Day HH SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID BIN SAEED AL MAKTOUM – VICE PRESIDENT AND PRIME MINISTER OF THE UAE AND RULER OF DUBAI

H Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is perhaps one of the most photographed Hrulers of the UAE. He is recognised and celebrated for his many fruitful initiatives which have led to Dubai’s growth into a global city.

He is a distinguished poet in classical Arabic and the Nabati style, an aviator and qualified pilot and an astute businessman. He is also a keen equestrian and very well known in the international thoroughbred horse racing and breeding circuit.

Sheikh Mohammed became the Ruler of Dubai on January 4, 2006 and was selected by the Federal National Council as the new Vice President of the UAE. On February 11 of the same “Dubai’s success is an extension of Abu year, the Council approved President Sheikh Mohammed bin Dhabi’s success and vice-versa. The same Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s Rashid Al Maktoum Quotes dynamic applies to the other emirates; nomination of Sheikh Mohammed for Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Prime Minister. “I want a government that toils 24 hours a day, just like airlines. I want Khaimah and Fujairah. The union of these seven emirates represents an unshakable He is viewed as a compassionate, it to be close to people, welcoming all force and an impregnable fortress that humble and visionary leader. He is clients akin to that welcome received cannot be weakened by challenges. This known for his zero tolerance policy by hotels’ guests. I want the citizens to union is the source of all our confidence on corruption within government. be able to process all their government and our strength.” His philanthropic work includes the transactions in one place, on a mobile Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum one-stop shop.” “Our aid has humanitarian objectives Foundation which focuses on only; it is never governed by politics education in the Middle East with a “I live a simple life, my life away from or limited by the geography, race, view towards bridging the gap between leadership is very simple. I wake up early, colour or religion of the beneficiary. the Arab region and the developed clean up and pray. I have breakfast with We provide humanitarian capital and world, Dubai Cares, a campaign which my family. Sometimes I visit my friends, are a major relief station for the poor; was started to raise funds to educate have a cup of coffee, or visit shopping we do not hesitate to help and support one million children in poor countries malls and have lunch at a restaurant one the brother, the ill-fated friend or the and Noor Dubai among many others. of them recommends and see people. This simple life makes me happy.” needy wherever they are. This is our message to the world, and this is the HH Sheikh Mohammed is very United Arab Emirates.” respected and loved by his countrymen. “We should always be practical, realistic and optimistic.” Source: sheikhmohammed.com

Special Feature Nov - Dec 2014 31 43rd National Day HH GENERAL SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN ZAYED BIN SULTAN AL NAHYAN – CROWN PRINCE OF ABU DHABI AND DEPUTY SUPREME COMMANDER OF THE UAE ARMED FORCES

H Sheikh Mohammed is a highly recognised leader who works tirelessly in promoting Hthe UAE’s interest both locally and internationally.

He serves as special advisor to his older brother HH Sheikh Khalifa and has significant influence on important policies and decisions which affect the UAE. He is a member of the Supreme Petroleum Council, the head of the Abu Dhabi Council of Economic Development and the head of the Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC) among other important positions.

He is the driving force behind numerous key developments in real estate and tourism within the emirate of Abu Dhabi. He is known for his philanthropic work with educational projects, health care projects involving Pakistan and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed “Every UAE national considers the Afghanistan, environmental protection Al Nahyan Quotes founder of this country and leader and humanitarian affairs with specific of this nation his role model …and focus on the prevention of human “Education is a country’s single most all nationals have responded to trafficking. important priority and investing in this leader’s call for progress and the educational development of the advancement thus making the UAE HH Sheikh Mohammed Al Nahyan individual represents the only real individual the backbone of the country’s is the recipient of numerous awards investment.” development.” and citations and is celebrated in the region, the United States and countries “Our educational development plans “The future holds no place for those within Europe. allow us to look forward to an even who lack knowledge and education.” brighter future of generations capable He is very respected and admired by of handling twice the responsibilities “Education is the priority of any nation his people. as a result of being founded on that hopes to occupy a distinguished knowledge, learning and adherence to position among the countries of the customs and traditions.” world. It is the means by which it can build a strong generation, cautious of “The true wealth of a nation lies in adhering to its customs and traditions its youth…one that is equipped with and able to adjust to the ever-changing education and knowledge and which needs of our times and to the ever- provides the means for building the developing technologies of the modern nation and strengthening its principles world.” to achieve progress on all levels.” Source: Crown Prince Court

32 Nov - Dec 2014 Special Feature 43rd National Day THE UAE NATIONAL SYMBOLS…

he United Arab Emirates has represents courage, grace, pride, several national symbols strength and force. that are intricately tied to the Tcountry’s rich history, culture and traditions. As the UAE celebrates another year of remarkable growth facilitated by its leaders and achieved The Arabian Oryx by both locals and expatriates, we This is the national animal of the United take a look at the national symbols and Arab Emirates, Jordan and Qatar. what they mean. Also known as the white oryx, their The Dhow bodies are distinctly white, whilst their Prior to the discovery of oil in the UAE, legs are dark brown as far down as much of the country’s industry focused the last joint above their hoofs, with on pearling and fishing. The famous the last part to the hoofs being white. Dhow is a symbol of that era. The Arab The white body colour helps to deflect dhow is considered to be one of the the sunlight. Both males and females world’s most graceful sailing crafts, with carry a pair of symmetrical horns, very the emirates being credited throughout The Flag slightly curved to the back. history for the prowess of their sailors The UAE flag is a national symbol for and the sleek lines of their vessels. the seven emirates. The colours red, The Arabian oryx was hunted in the green, black and white are Pan-Arab wild to extinction over forty years Today, traditional boatyards in the colours that represent the unity among ago. However, captive breeding and Emirates still value the dhow as an the emirates. White represents peace, reintroduction programmes have ancient boat building tradition. It is honesty and purity, green is for hope, resulted in a thriving number today. HH a powerful reminder of the country’s love, prosperity and success, red is for Sheikh Zayed’s family is among those history, the hard work of their ancestors sacrifice, bravery, strength and power who have been credited with saving and their skill in creating such a and black represents dignity, authority the oryx by breeding them in captivity powerful and elegant watercraft. The and strength of mind. during the 1960s. Herds can be found Dhow is a symbol of early trade and at specific locations within the UAE. water industry.

The Dallah Coffee Pot The Palm Tree Many expatriates have come to enjoy The Falcon The palm tree is a symbol of the unique taste of Arabic coffee, Falconry is one of the oldest traditions sustenance. It is one of the more which is widely served in both social of the UAE. It remains one of the recognised symbols of the United and business settings. Arabic coffee most popular pastimes among locals. Arab Emirates and is lauded for its is served from the dallah coffee pot, Falconry is traditionally related to numerous attributes. It is also the most which is considered to be a strong hunting for food in the past, when highly valued tree in the Arab world. symbol of local hospitality. falcons were used to supplement diets by hunting hares and houbara mainly. The palm tree is a source of food This well-known traditional coffee pot is for humans who eat the date fruit a metal pot that has a long beak-like Falconry teaches patience and and animals that are fed the seeds. spout specifically designed for serving endurance. It requires skill and courage It provides shade from the sun. It Arabic coffee. to tame and train the falcon. has been used in the construction of houses, household items such as Today, many locals have dallah pots in Arabs admire the falcon for its beauty, pots, mats and fans. It has medicinal their homes that they use to entertain posture, sharp eyesight and grandeur. purposes among other good attributes. family members and other guests. Today, there are laws implemented to protect falcons and to ensure that the The palm tree serves as a reminder The Dallah coffee pot is proudly birds are treated properly. of the country’s history of a time when displayed on the one-dirham coin. food was not easily accessible. It is a As a national symbol, the falcon symbol of food and water.

Special Feature Nov - Dec 2014 33 Vox Pop NATIONAL DAY 2014 VOX POP – EMIRATIS

What does National Day mean to you?

Huda Thani Ali, Alya Burhaima, Mohammed Obaid Hilal, Sharjah Sharjah Dubai I am happy to be from the National Day means a lot to me. I am very proud of my country. Emirates. Our rulers are helping There is always a festival or some National Day means a lot to me us to become a successful people. kind of celebratory event happening. because in 1971, we established the 7 National Day is very important to us. It In the evening, our family heads to emirates (UAE). Since then our country helps us to work together, so we can be the Corniche here in Sharjah where has been developing at a rapid pace among the top countries of the world. everyone is celebrating with their flags. and our people are very happy. Our I would like to thank His Highness for It reminds us that this is our country and country is safe and each year the new giving us that opportunity. we need to work really hard to build it. developments attract many people National Day inspires us to be loyal and who come here to live and work. to give more to our country. It is special too because everyone living in the country celebrates, not just the locals.

Hamdan Al Aryani, Muna Abdul Rahim, Al Ain Al Ain For me, it is simply the best day of UAE National Day can be compared the year. It is a great and joyful to a mother who embraces her day which is celebrated in unison, children with love to foster peace and from the noblest of sheikhs to the least unity in her home. Once love, peace and unity prevail in the home, the mother sets of the emirates. It is a day when we a day of commemoration, as a reminder reflect on and celebrate the wisdom to her children to guard and celebrate, of our forefathers, who sought unity with pride, what has been achieved… We and prosperity for their children and celebrate and express our joy on this day by generations to come. feasting and decorating almost everything in the national colours of the UAE.

34 Nov - Dec 2014 Special Feature Vox Pop NATIONAL DAY 2014 VOX POP – EMIRATIS

Ahmed Al Remeithi, Abdulla Al Bloushi, Mahmoud Al Shamsi, Al Ain Al Ain Al Ain Though this day was first National Day is a big day for all This is a great day for me. commemorated 43 years ago UAE nationals. What we feel for Leading up to National Day, in Al and I am only 28 years old, I can’t help our country is greater than love. We Ain, all the streets are decorated with but still feel what His Highness Sheikh are very patriotic, so on this day, you beautiful lights. Then on this day, we Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan felt when will see all the homes and everywhere go out with our friends to celebrate. he pioneered the idea of uniting the decorated with the UAE flag. Everyone Sheikh Zayed is our father and we look emirates into one impressive nation. celebrates, Emiratis and expatriates to him as his children. We have learnt This is a day of hope, peace and unity together in the streets, at festivals and a lot from him about preserving our for the UAE, which I also wish other other celebratory events. traditions, how to treat our elders and countries to equally experience. to love our country.

Thamer Al Shammry, Ahmed Al Ameri, Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi National Day means a lot to National Day represents us. The most important one the unity among the seven is that it marks the day on which emirates. It’s an occasion to our forefathers came together to remember the achievements of our create one great country. We can leaders and the development of face anything together. This means our country. a lot to both children and adults. It also reminds us to preserve our traditions as we celebrate what our forefathers have done.

Special Feature Nov - Dec 2014 35 Snapshot Of The Emirates

ABU DHABI

HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Founding Father of the UAE and former Ruler of Abu Dhabi.

HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nayhan, UAE President and the Ruler of Abu Dhabi.

Founding Father: HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nayhan (1966 – 2004) Current Ruler: HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nayhan (2004 – present) Important Landmarks: The Grand Mosque, Maqta Bridge Key Industries: Tourism, Oil & Gas Production and Free Zone Business Investment Opportunities

he emirate of Abu Dhabi is • Jebel Hafeet, located in Al Ain, is the • The first town bus entered service the capital of the United Arab UAE’s second tallest mountain and in 1969 but was part of an informal Emirates and is also the has evidence of early civilisations service. Today, transportation Tsecond most populous of the around it. throughout the emirate includes seven emirates. Under the diligent public buses, taxis, ferries and guidance of their visionary founding • Abu Dhabi was also known for airplanes. father HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan conducting business in the pearling Al Nahyan and the current Ruler of industry. • The Abu Dhabi International Airport is Abu Dhabi, President of the UAE and the city’s main aviation hub and the commander of the Union Defence • Oil was discovered in Abu Dhabi in second busiest airport in the UAE. Its Force, HH Sheikh Kalifa bin Zayed Al 1960. Production and export began terminals are dominated by Etihad Nahyan, Abu Dhabi has grown into a offshore in 1962 and onshore in Airways, which is the UAE’s national cosmopolitan metropolis. 1963. The emirate remains the carrier and the country’s second largest producer of oil in the UAE. largest airline. Here are some interesting facts about Abu Dhabi: • Abu Dhabi is the wealthiest emirate • Abu Dhabi is the home to numerous in the UAE as it relates to Gross education institutions, which include • The literal translation of the words Abu Domestic Product (GDP) and per local and international schools. All Dhabi means “Father of the Deer” capita income. In 2007, Forbes and schools in the emirate are under the which has references of gazelles CNN named the emirate as the authority of the Abu Dhabi Education that inhabited the emirate. wealthiest in the world. Council (ADEC).

• Abu Dhabi is full of archaeological • The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is Source: National Archives – Abu Dhabi (Photo Credit: National Archives, UAE) evidence that points to civilisations the official mosque of the UAE and is dating as far back as the 3rd also considered to be one of the most millennium BC. important landmarks in Abu Dhabi.

36 Nov - Dec 2014 Special Feature Snapshot Of The Emirates

DUBAI

HH Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Founding Father of the UAE and former Ruler of Dubai.

HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and the Ruler of Dubai.

Founding Father: HH Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum (1958 – 1990) Current Ruler: HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum (1990 – present) Important Landmark: Burj Khalifa Key Industries: Tourism, Shipping Port and Free Zone Business Investment Opportunities

oday, travellers from all over 1961, approximately 50 years after Dubai International Convention and the globe flock to the emirate Times Square in New York already Exhibition Centre (DICEC) at Dubai of Dubai, which has fast had multi-coloured illuminations. World Trade Centre (DWTC). It is Tdeveloped from what was the region’s largest purpose-built originally considered to be a place that • Oil was first discovered in 1966 after complex welcoming 2.2 million trade was inhabited by nomadic tribes who many years of drilling. delegates a year. left very little trace of their existence, to an in demand, international destination, • When the pearling industry crashed in • Emirates Airline was launched in rich with industry and productivity. the 1930s, Dubai bounced back from 1985 with two aircrafts. The idea was a deep depression by implementing received with much scepticism at In the 18th century, members of the favourable tax incentives. the time. Today Emirates has a fleet Bani Yas tribe settled along the banks of 218 aircrafts flying to over 142 of the Dubai Creek and used their • Port Rashid opened in 1971 out of destinations in 80 countries. It is often natural commercial instincts and liberal a desire to provide access to large lauded as the “World’s Best Airline”. attitudes to attract neighbouring traders container ships. It had only two from India and other Gulf countries. gantry cranes. By 1978, the port was • In 1999, Dubai grabbed the world’s By the late 1870s, Dubai had become expanded to include 35 berths, 5 of attention with the opening of the Burj Al the main port of the southern coast, which were used by the largest ship Arab on an artificial island off Jumeirah developing major souks to enable containers of the time. As a result Beach. This sail-shaped building has visitors to trade their wares. It was a of continued growth in this industry, become a world-renowned icon and is chaotic home to Iranians, Omanis and Jebel Ali Port was opened one year dubbed by many as the ‘world’s only tribal . later. Jebel Ali is the world’s largest seven-star hotel’. man-made harbour and the biggest Here are some interesting facts port in the Middle East. • The Burj Khalifa opened on January 4, about Dubai: 2010 and is the world’s tallest tower. • The Sheikh Rashid Tower opened It is seen as a symbol of strength, • Pearl collected from offshore beds and in 1978 and had 39 stories. It was determination and a demonstration gold were key contributors to Dubai’s the tallest building in the city and of Dubai’s capabilities. prosperity during the early years. the first high rise building along Sheikh Zayed Road. Today, this Source: Dubai Department of Tourism and • Dubai first received electricity in tower has grown into the renowned Commerce Marketing. (Photo Credit: National Archives, UAE)

Special Feature Nov - Dec 2014 37 Snapshot Of The Emirates

SHARJAH

HH Sheikh Khalid bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Founding Father of the UAE and former Ruler of Sharjah.

HH Sheikh Dr Sultan III bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah.

Founding Father: HH Sheikh Khalid bin Mohammed Al Qasimi (1965 – 1972) Current Ruler: HH Sheikh Dr Sultan III bin Mohammed Al Qasimi (1972 – present) Important Landmarks: Al Majaz Waterfront, The Cultural Roundabout (formerly known as the Quran Roundabout) Key Industries: Tourism, Shipping Port and Free Zone Business Investment Opportunities

oday, the industrious emirate within the emirate. These museums their diverse history and embracing of Sharjah is the scene constantly provide great exhibitions the opportunities of the present that of a constantly blooming that feature interesting artefacts, will yield a more positive future for the TMetropolis. However, like all valuable information on the UAE and emirate, its residents and by extension, her sister emirates, Sharjah has a rich the Gulf region, as well as, timeless the people of the UAE. history and can be counted as one of photography that visually transports the fastest developing emirates within you back in time and informs you about Source: Sharjah Tourisim (Photo Credit: Sharjah Media Centre and the United Arab Emirates. how Emiratis and the people of the National Archives, UAE) Gulf region lived in the past. These Sharjah is the third largest emirate museums are excellent for field trips following Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Its and social outings for anyone who is settlements date back to approximately keen on exploring and discovering the 6, 000 years ago when it is believed to secrets of Arabian lifestyle and Islamic have been called Sarcoa. Back then, culture. Sharjah also offers impressive the small population relied on trade, art galleries and beautifully restored farming, fishing, hunting and pearling. heritage sites.

The emirate of Sharjah is renown Sharjah is a city of humanitarian throughout the Arab world for its service. There is a constant push to commitment to art, culture and promote humanitarian work especially preserving local heritage. In fact, in in the fields of health care, education, 1998, UNESCO named the emirate as rehabilitation and reintegration of the the “Cultural Capital of the Arab World.” disabled into society.

Places of educational value to The integrity and character of the educators include the wide range of people of Sharjah is linked to a deep over 20 museums that are located appreciation for and understanding of

38 Nov - Dec 2014 Special Feature Snapshot Of The Emirates

AJMAN

HH Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid , Founding Father of the UAE and former Ruler of Ajman.

HH Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Member of Supreme Council and Ruler of Ajman.

Founding Father: HH Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi (1928-1981) Current Ruler: HH Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi (1981 – present) Important Landmark: Al Bidyah Mosque Key Industries: Real Estate, trading and agriculture

he emirate of Ajman is the The city has all of the government Many visitors head to Ajman which smallest of the seven emirates. departments, corporate headquarters, has magnificent beaches offering However, the tenacity and banks and malls as well as the Ajman retreats with fresh air and pollution-free Tprogressive leadership of the Port. Ajman has become a modern city recreational activities for all to enjoy. emirate, has positioned it as a place where all modern services and facilities of great industry. Ajman lies on the are provided. It has maintained its Source: Government of Ajman (Photo Credit: National Archives, UAE) Arabian Gulf coast along with the traditional character giving the Emirate northern emirates. The emirate has a balanced blend of the achievements three cities, Ajman the capital, Mesfoot of the modern era and the traditional and Al Menameh, which are known for characters of the past. their rich agricultural land.

Special Feature Nov - Dec 2014 39 Snapshot Of The Emirates

UMM AL QUWAIN

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Mualla, Founding Father of the UAE and former Ruler of Umm Al Quwain.

HH Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla, Member of Supreme Council and Ruler of Umm Al Quwain.

Founding Father: HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Mualla (1929-1981) Current Ruler: HH Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla, (2009 – present) Important Landmark: Dreamland Aqua Park Key Industries: Industrial, tourism, agriculture, private sector investments

ike many of her sister emirates, One of its landmarks is an old harbour The largest water park in the UAE, Umm Al Quwain boasts a located in the old town overlooking the Dreamland Aqua Park is located along beautiful coastline that is a traditional dhow-building yard where the coastline of Umm Al Quwain. It is Lhaven for tourists. Additionally, skilled craftsmen continue to assemble approximately forty minutes drive away it has several sandy islands surrounded these traditional boats. Old coral from Dubai. by dense mangrove forests, separated stone houses that display features of by creeks. There are archaeological the original architecture and intricate Source: Government of Umm Al Quwain (Photo Credit: National Archives, UAE) sites that date back to the dawn of sculptured plasterwork surround the Islam. It is the least populated emirate. harbour.

40 Nov - Dec 2014 Special Feature Snapshot Of The Emirates

RAS AL KHAIMAH

HH Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Founding Father of the UAE and former Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah.

HH Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of Supreme Council and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah.

Founding Father: HH Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi (1948 – 2010) Current Ruler: HH Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi (2010 – present) Important Landmark: The National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah Key Industries: Tourism, investment agencies, bulk port

he name Ras Al Khaimah and rich cultural history.’ Its history spans attention is given to preserving traditional translates to ‘top of the tent’ in many important periods such as the Ubaid sporting activities as well as those done Arabic. The capital of the emirate period (5000 – 3800BC), Hafeet Period on a global scale. Local sports activities is Ras Al Khaimah City. The (3200 – 2600BC), Umm al-Nar Civilisation include camel racing, falconry, equestrian Tcity is divided in two by a creek with the (2600 – 200BC) up to the Iron Age (1250 sports and hunting with greyhounds to Western part known as Old Town (Ras – 300BC) to the later Islamic Era (14th name a few. There are also numerous Al Khaimah) and the eastern part called – 19th Century). Monuments from the festivals and sports clubs that focus on Muairid. various time periods can be found at the entertainment within the emirate. National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah. According to the official government Source: Government of Ras Al Khaimah website of Ras Al Khaimah, the emirate Ras Al Khaimah is a popular tourist (Photo Credit: National Archives, UAE) is ‘the cradle for ancient civilisation which destination and is known for its beautiful has an impressive archaeological heritage beaches and wonderful hotels. Special

Special Feature Nov - Dec 2014 41 FUJAIRAH

HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamed , Founding Father of the UAE and former Ruler of Fujairah.

HH Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Member of Supreme Council and Ruler of Fujairah.

Founding Father: HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamed Al Sharqi (1942 – 1974) Current Ruler: HH Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi (1974 – present) Important Landmark: Al Bidyah Mosque Key Industries: Tourism, Agriculture & Shipping Port

he Emirate of Fujairah derives Education is a top priority in securing as the land of sea giants. Fujairah is its name from a spring of water sustained prosperity and building the home to the oldest mosque in the UAE, located beneath one of the future of Fujairah. The emirate of Fujairah Al Bidyah Mosque. The main cities and Tmountains. It is the 5th largest offers a superior learning environment villages in Fujairah are Dibba, Murbeh, emirate. Unlike other emirates, Fujairah with an excellent range of schools Qidfa, Al Bidiyah, Masafi and Al-Siji. is almost completely mountainous and and leading academic institutions and is the only emirate that lies along the vocational training facilities. Education Fujairah is a land endowed with eastern side of the UAE, along the Gulf options include child education to remarkable beauty. Its beautiful beaches of Oman. It has the highest amount of career development, which are provided are a key attraction for tourists, sports rainfall in the UAE. Its strategic location through a variety of educational facilities and water-sports enthusiasts from all provides easy access to international throughout the emirate. over the world. Fujairah is known as the shipping routes which has played a key jewel of the Middle East. role in its development as one of the The historical importance of Fujairah world’s top oil-bunkering ports. dates back to the period before the birth Source: Goverment of Fujairah of Christ. It was known in the old ages (Photo Credit: National Archives, UAE)

شكـــرًا ! !Thank You

Special thanks to HE Dr Abdulla Al Reyes, Greg Iverson and the team at the National Archives, Maitha Ahmed at Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, Nesma Ahmed at Sharjah Media, Shamma Musabeh Al Jattal at Sharjah Museums and to all the Emiratis who participated in our National Day Vox Pop. Special thanks also to Bob Cowan for your patience and guidance. Thank you to our sources listed throughout the feature without whom a lot of the information provided here would not have been possible.

42 Nov - Dec 2014 Special Feature